Smithpeters finished with 11 points for the Salukis (13-19, 9-9 MVC), who were led by Anthony Beane's 21 points. Desmar Jackson chipped in 18 points and seven rebounds in the win.

For the Redbirds (16-14, 9-9), Daishon Knight led the way with 15 points, while Bobby Hunter added 13 points, Zach Lofton scored 11 and Reggie Lynch scored 10 with four blocked shots.

Illinois State was hot from the field to start the game, knocking down 52.2 percent of its field goal tries, including 7-of-14 from 3-point range, as the Redbirds took a 36-33 lead at the break. Despite shooting just 31.3 percent from the field in the first half, SIU stayed close by outscoring Illinois State 10-5 at the free-throw line in the half.

In the second half, the shooting performances switched, as the Salukis connected on 52.4 percent from the field, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc. It was the Redbirds' turn to struggle in the second, as they hit on just 39.1 percent of their field goal attempts, missing all seven of their tries from deep. Trailing by three, 63-60, with under three minutes to play, the Redbirds scored five straight points to take a 65-63 lead with 29 seconds on the clock. They had a chance to extend that lead to three points, but Nick Zeisloft made only one of two free throws, setting the stage for Smithpeters' end-of-game heroics.

Southern Illinois State dominated the glass, outrebounding Illinois State, 43-21. SIU also had the edge in second chance points, 18-6. The Redbirds were able to force 13 turnovers and convert them into 20 points.